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Door locks should be changed roughly every seven years. The average lifespan of a door lock is seven to 10 years, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and change them early, especially if they are showing signs of wear and tear. Examples of deterioration include visible rust and difficulty opening or closing the door. Some locks can work safely beyond 10 years, but it depends on how often they are used and whether they are exposed to damaging environmental conditions like precipitation or extreme temperatures.

Various types of deadbolts are available, from the classic single-cylinder lock to a double-cylinder, rim deadbolt, smart deadbolt, and electronic deadbolt lock. Most homes in the U.S. use a single-cylinder deadbolt lock, which requires a key on the exterior and only a thumb turn on the interior to open or close the lock. 

In general, keyless door locks are considered safe. They can’t be picked like a traditional lock, and unless a thief can guess your code, it’s pretty tricky to break into a house with a keyless door lock. But that doesn’t mean they come without risk. 

When asking yourself, "Are keyless door locks safe?” consider the style of the system. Hackers could potentially break in if it operates on Wi-Fi, but it’d take some time and effort. You’re also at risk for a power outage, depending on the type of lock. That being said, there are no more risks associated with keyless door locks than a traditional lock.

Most door knobs can be removed with a Phillips or flathead screwdriver. If you don’t have either of those available, a paper clip or small pin can sometimes work, but the extra effort may not be worth a quick trip to the hardware store.